Our Story

Hi, I’m Andrea, a single mom to my two-year-old daughter, living with my parents and Uncle Peter. We’re a tight-knit family, always lifting each other up, but this year has pushed us to the brink. My ex-husband left when my daughter was just 2 weeks old. In 2022, with her only 4 months old, we had to sell our home of 24 years—where we’d built a lifetime of memories.

This year started with Mom and me catching a “milder” COVID strain, brutal for her due to her COPD. Still weak in April, right after her birthday, a diabetic crisis landed her in the hospital for a week. It almost killed her. We learned she has type 2 diabetes, adding out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits, blood work, and meds—my dad’s income is too high for Medicaid but too low for insurance for two. The hospital’s hardship program waived her fees, for which we’re deeply grateful, but her diabetes has weakened her balance and strength due to neuropathy, leaving her unable to help at home. Her eyesight has also been affected.

In June, my 72-year-old dad, who survived a stroke in 2019, quadruple bypass surgery in 2020, and a month in ICU, then COVID in 2022, faced skin cancer. After three surgeries, he’s cancer-free—a beacon of hope. But in September, my Uncle Peter, whose jokes and handyman fixes light up our home, learned his ulcer that didn't heal was skin cancer. Surgery couldn’t remove it all due to its delicate spot on his neck, and he now faces 20 radiation sessions starting in November, too weak to do the physical labor he was used to doing.

The Need

My dad, who should be enjoying retirement, is the sole provider, struggling to cover rent, utilities, and all bills while Peter can’t work. My work hours have been cut in half, and we’re drowning in debt. We’re raising $50,000 to cover rent, and other bills including medical. For example just one of Pete's medications for a 30-day supply is worth $15,000 and he needs 5 months' worth. Let's add Mom’s diabetes care and medical visits. Forget the fact that Peter can't work just yet. Your donation is giving us the possibility to heal.

Your Impact

Your gift can change our story. With your support, we hopefully can see Peter only worrying about fighting the cancer. Mom can finally worry about getting better herself and get the medical treatment she so desperately needs. My dad at his retiring age can finally relax a bit and not be worried about where the money will be coming from to pay all our bills. My daughter can grow up with joy, and never know what it's like to struggle. You’re giving us a fighting chance to rebuild.

Our Plea

Please donate today to lift this burden. If you can’t give, please share this campaign—post it on X, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or with friends. Every share brings us closer to our goal. We’ll update you on Peter’s treatment and our journey, so you see the difference you’re making.

From Our Hearts

After COVID, losing our home, diabetes, and two cancer battles, we’re still fighting—because of love and community. Thank you for being our lifeline.

With gratitude,

Andrea